Holders for beds

ABSTRACT

Set of attachments, including one or more attachments are attached to a portion of bedding for storing an item, such that someone lying in bed may comfortably reach the item while in bed. The set of attachments may include various sorts of holders for holding personal items, such as one or more pockets and/or one or more straps. In an embodiment the bedding is a fitted bed sheet. In other embodiments, the bedding may be other pieces of bedding where the set of attachments may be placed within reach of the person. In an embodiment, the location of the set of attachments is based on an average sized individual of a particular population and the size of the bedding. In another embodiment, the location of the pocket is based on the dimensions of the individual for which the set of attachments is made and on the individual&#39;s bedding.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Utility patentapplication Ser. No. 12/387,606 (Docket # 32-3), entitled “Holders forBeds,” filed May 4, 2009, which in turn is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 11/710,092 (Docket # 32-2), nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,526,822, entitled “Holders for Beds,” filed Feb. 22,2007, which in turn claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication entitled “Holders on Bedsheets for Personal Items,” Ser. No.60/776,039, filed Feb. 22, 2006 (Docket # 32-1), by Teresa Joyce. UnitedStates Utility patent application Ser. No. 12/387,606 (Docket # 32-3)entitled “Holders for Beds,” U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No.11/710,092 (Docket # 32-2) entitled “Holders for Beds,” and United.States Provisional Patent Application entitled “Holders on Bedsheets forPersonal Items,” Ser. No. 60/776,039 (Docket # 32-1) are eachincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The invention is related to pieces of bedding.

BACKGROUND

The subject matter discussed in the background section should not beassumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in thebackground section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the backgroundsection or associated with the subject matter of the background sectionshould not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the priorart. The subject matter in the background section merely representsdifferent approaches, which in and of themselves may also be inventions.

A variety of sorts of bedding have been designed for people to lie upon.Some of the pieces of bedding that people may use may includemattresses, box springs, sheets, fitted sheets, blankets and bedspreads. While lying in bed people often like to keep a variety of itemsnearby, such as books, eye glasses, water bottles, and amusementdevices, such as toys, puzzles, games, electronic games, mobile phones,and remote controls for televisions or video games. Some people maydesire to keep any of these items close by while in bed, so that it iseasier to enjoy these items while in bed. Some people may desire to keepone or more safety or security devices nearby, such as an inhalers,mace, a noise making device (e.g., a horn or a whistle), or a Taser®.The person may want to keep the safety device close by for increasedprotection in case a malicious person visits the person in bed.Additionally, the quality of life for bed ridden people can be improvedby having these items close by and easily accessible. Having these itemsclose by may also decrease the degree of dependence that a bed riddenperson has on other people.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following drawings like reference numbers are used to refer tolike elements. Although the following figures depict various examples ofthe invention, the invention is not limited to the examples depicted inthe figures.

FIG. 1A shows a representation of an example of a bed and a set ofattachments according to the invention.

FIG. 1B shows a representation of an example of mattress in a reclinedposition.

FIG. 1A shows a representation of an example of a bed and a set ofattachments between the head of the bed and the headboard.

FIG. 2A shows a representation of an example of a fitted sheet havingthe set of attachments on a side of the bed that is expected to beparallel to the side of a person lying down.

FIG. 2B shows a representation of an example of a fitted sheet havingthe set of attachments at the head of the bed.

FIG. 3A shows a representation of an example of another sheet having theset of attachments that are expected to be located at the side of thebed (as opposed to the head of the bed) when placed on the bed.

FIG. 3B shows a representation of an example of another sheet having theset of attachments that are expected to be located at the side of thebed when placed on the bed.

FIG. 4 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving a set of attachments.

FIG. 5 shows a representation of an example of another portion ofbedding having the attachments.

FIG. 6 shows a representation of an example of one type of pocket thatmay be used within the set of attachments of FIGS. 1A-5.

FIG. 7A shows a representation of an example of one type of pocket thatmay be used within the set of attachments of FIGS. 1A-5.

FIG. 7B shows a representation of an example of one type of pocket thatmay be used within the set of attachments of FIGS. 1A-5.

FIG. 7C shows a representation of an embodiment of a cross-section of apocket that may be used within the set of attachments of FIGS. 1A-5.

FIG. 7D shows a representation of an embodiment of a back side of afront cloth that may be used to form a pocket within the set ofattachments of FIGS. 1A-5.

FIG. 7E shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 7F shows a representation of an example of a cross-section of anembodiment of a holder.

FIG. 7G shows a representation of an example of a cross-section of anembodiment of a holder.

FIG. 8 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 9 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 10 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 11 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 12 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 13 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 14 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 15 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 16 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 17 shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of a set of attachments.

FIG. 18 shows a top view of a representation of an example of a scenarioin which a person is using a set of attachments.

FIG. 19 shows a side view of the representation of the scenario of FIG.18.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an example of a method of making beddinghaving one of the sets of attachments discussed in this specification.

FIG. 21 shows a flowchart of an example of a method of using one of theset of attachments discussed in this specification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although various embodiments of the invention may have been motivated byvarious deficiencies with the prior art, which may be discussed oralluded to in one or more places in the specification, the embodimentsof the invention do not necessarily address any of these deficiencies.In other words, different embodiments of the invention may addressdifferent deficiencies that may be discussed in the specification. Someembodiments may only partially address some deficiencies or just onedeficiency that may be discussed in the specification, and someembodiments may not address any of these deficiencies.

In general, at the beginning of the discussion of each of FIGS. 1A-19 isa brief description of each element, which may have no more than thename of each of the elements in the one of FIGS. 1A-19 that is beingdiscussed. After the brief description of each element, each element isfurther discussed in numerical order. In general, each of FIGS. 1A-21 isdiscussed in numerical order and the elements within FIGS. 1A-21 arealso usually discussed in numerical order to facilitate easily locatingthe discussion of a particular element. Nonetheless, there is no onelocation where all of the information of any element of FIGS. 1A-21 isnecessarily located. Unique information about any particular element orany other aspect of any of FIGS. 1A-21 may be found in, or implied by,any part of the specification.

FIG. 1A shows a representation of an example of a bed 100 according tothe invention. Bed 100 may include optional legs 102 a-d, optional boxspring 104, and mattress 106, which has set of attachments 108. Bed 100may also include optional pillow 110, optional pillow cover 112, seams114, and optional headboard 116. In other embodiments, bed 100 may nothave all of the features listed and/or may have other features insteadof or in addition to those listed.

Bed 100 is for sitting, sleeping, or lying upon. Bed 100 supports theweight of at least one person. Optionally, bed 100 feels soft and iscomfortable to lie and/or sit upon. Although bed 100 is illustrated ashaving the head and foot as being narrower than the sides, the head andfoot maybe wider than the sides of bed 100. Bed 100 may be any of anumber of sizes, such as a twin size, queen size, king size, or any of anumber of other sizes. Regarding bed sizes and fitted bed sheet sizestwin size refers to a size of 39″ by 75″, extra long twin size refers toa size of 39″ by 80″, full size refers to a size of 54″ by 75″, queensize refers to a size of 60″ by 80″, king size refers to a size of 76″by 80″, and California king size refers to size of 72″ by 84″. Althoughbed 100 is illustrated as rectangular, bed 100 may be any shape. Bed 100may be for use in a household, hospital, hotel, hospice, and/or may haveother uses.

Optional legs 102 a-d support bed 100 and raise bed 100 above theground. Although FIG. 1 only shows legs 102 a, 102 c, and 102 d, bed 100may also include leg 102 b under the upper left corner, hidden from viewin the perspective of FIG. 1. Although bed 100 is illustrated as havingfour legs, bed 100 may have fewer than four legs or more than four legs.For example, bed 100 may not have any legs, may have only one leg, mayhave three legs, may have five legs or any other number of legs. Also,the legs may be located in different locations than illustrated in FIG.1

Optional box spring 104 (if present) may support a mattress and mayinclude an arrangement of springs. Alternatively, optional box spring104 may include a configuration of different types of cushions and/orsprings or may be an ordinary mattress. In an embodiment optional legs102 a-d are attached to box spring 104. In another embodiment, optionallegs 102 a-d are attached to a frame that holds optional box spring 104.

Mattress 106 is for the person to lie upon. In an embodiment, mattress106 is a cushion. In another embodiment, mattress 106 is an air mattressor a water mattress. Mattress 106 may be covered by a sheet.

Set of attachments 108 are a set of one or more attachments for holdingpersonal items of the person. In an embodiment, set of attachments 108are located in a position in which it is convenient for the person toreach. The location of the set of attachments may depend upon thedimensions of the people, the agility of the people, and/or thedimensions of portions of the bedding for which the set of attachmentsare intended. In an embodiment, the pocket is placed in a position foreasy access and less stress for a bed ridden person as compared to otherpositions on the bedding. In an embodiment, attachment 108 may beattached to the sheet that covers mattress 106. In an alternativeembodiment, no sheet is used and set of attachments 108 is attacheddirectly to mattress 106. One or more holders for personal items areattached to a fitted sheet. There are a variety of embodiments ofdifferent types of holders that are within the scope of thisspecification. In an embodiment, set of attachments 108 may include avariety of types of holders for personal items, such as pockets, straps,cup holders, or other types of holders of personal items. In oneembodiment, the holder is a pocket. In another embodiment the holder isa strap. In yet another embodiment the holder may include one or morepockets and/or one or more straps. The details of set of attachments 108are discussed further in conjunction with the remaining figures.

Pillow 110 is for the person to rest their head upon while lying uponmattress 106. Pillow 110 may include feathers and/or another softparticulate material, which are enclosed within a soft cloth casing.Pillow 110 may include foam in addition to, or instead of, the feathersand/or soft particulate material. Alternatively, pillow 110 may be anair cushion or water cushion. Pillow 110 may be covered with optionalpillow cover 112. Seams 114 may connect a top portion of mattress 106 toside portions of mattress 106. The location of set of attachments 108may be measured relative to the top of mattress 106. Optional headboard116 (if present) may be used by a person to lean against while awake inbed. The location of set of attachments 108 may be based on a relaxedpositioning of the person's arm while sitting in bed in a relaxedposition, which may be on the side of bed 100 around a location (e.g.,just beyond or slightly short) of the hips of a person (e.g., an averagesized person) sitting in bed while leaning against headboard 116.

FIG. 1B shows a representation of an example of mattress 122 in areclined position. Mattress 122 has set of attachments 124. In otherembodiments, bed 122 may not have all of the features listed and/or mayhave other features instead of, or in addition to, those listed.Mattress 122 may be adjustable to recline or lay flat. Mattress 122 islocated on top of a reclining bed, such as a hospital bed, and may be inthe reclined position as a result of the bed being in a reclinedposition. Set of attachments 122 may be located directly on mattress122, on a fitted or bedding on mattress 122, or on another piece ofbedding associated with mattress 122. Set of attachments 124 is locatedat the point where the mattress folds while inclined upwards or on apiece of bedding (e.g., a fitted sheet) at the point that is expected tobe located at the fold in mattress 122 while mattress 122 is inclined.

FIG. 1C shows a representation of an example of a bed 100 according tothe invention. Bed 100 may include optional legs 102 a-d, optional boxspring 104, and mattress 106, which has a blowup 118 showing portion ofbedding 120 having set of attachments 122. FIG. 1C also includesoptional pillow 110, optional pillow cover 112, seams 114, and optionalheadboard 116. In other embodiments, bed 100 may not have all of thefeatures listed and/or may have other features instead of or in additionto those listed.

Bed 100, optional legs 102 a-d, optional box spring 104, mattress 106,optional pillow 110, optional pillow cover 112, seams 114, and optionalheadboard 116 were described above in conjunction with FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is similar to FIG. 1A except that FIG. 1C has set of attachments122 instead of set of attachments 108. Blowup 118 is a magnified view ofa portion of bed 100 that is where a user is expected to place theirhead while lying down. In the embodiment of FIG. 1C, blowup 118 shows aportion of the bedding that faces optional headboard 116. Portion ofbedding 120 is a portion of bedding shown in blowup 118. Set ofattachments 122 is the set of attachments shown in blowup 118, which arelocated on portion of bedding 120. Set of attachments 122 are similar toset of attachments 108 except set of attachment 108 are located in onthe side of bed 100, whereas attachments 122 are located at the head ofbed 100. Set of attachments 118 is otherwise the same as set ofattachments 108. The discussion of set of attachments 108 in theremainder of this specification is equally applicable to set ofattachments 108. In an embodiment, set of attachments 118 holdsprotective devices that a bed ridden person may keep for protection fromphysical harm. For example, set of attachments 118 may hold a gun, horn,whistle, cell phone, mace, or a Taser®. In an embodiment, set ofattachments 118 are specifically shaped and dimensioned for storage ofprotective devices that a bed ridden person may keep for protection fromphysical harm. For example, set of attachments 118 may be speciallyshaped and/or dimensioned for holding a container of a gun, horn,whistle, cell phone, mace, or a Taser®.

FIG. 2A shows a representation of an example of a fitted sheet 200having the set of attachments. Fitted sheet 200 has set of attachments208 attached to side portion 210. Fitted sheet 200 includes top portion212 and folds 214 a-g and elastic 216. In other embodiments, fittedsheet 200 may not have all of the features listed and/or may have otherfeatures instead of or in addition to those listed.

Fitted sheet 200 is shaped to fit on a mattress of a particular set ofdimensions (e.g., a particular thickness, width, and length). Fittedsheet 200 may be less likely to slip off of the mattress than a sheetthat is not fitted. Set of attachments 208 may be the same as set ofattachments 108, which were explained in conjunction with FIG. 1 (andset of attachments 108, 122, 208, will be discussed further in theremainder of this specification). In an embodiment, a piece of fabricmay be sewn to the fitted sheet to form a pocket (which is one type ofholder that may be included in the set of attachments). Side 210 is aside of fitted sheet 200 that is expected to be placed on a bed in amanner such that when someone lies down side 210 will be located at theside of the person lying down. Top portion 212 is the portion of fittedsheet that is placed on the top of a mattress. Folds 214 a-g are placeswhere sections of sheet 200 that correspond to different sides of themattress meet and are attached to one another. For example, folds 214 dconnect side 210 to top 212. Similarly, folds 214 a-c connect sideportions to top 212, and folds 214 e-g connect different side portionsto one another. Folds 214 a-d may be indicative of the location of theseams of the mattress for which fitted sheet 200 is attached. In anembodiment, folds 214 a-d are continuous portions of fabric that have noparticular fold until fitted sheet 200 is placed on a mattress.

Similarly, in an embodiment, the top portions of folds 214 e-g are alsocontinuous portions of material that do not show any fold until fittedsheet 200 is placed on a mattress, while the bottom portions of folds214 e-g may be seams. In alternative embodiments, any portion of folds214 a-g may be seams or continuous portions of material. The location ofset of holder 208 may be measured in-part with respect to folds 214 band/or 214 d. There is an eight fold on the portion of the corner of thebed that is hidden from view, which may be referred to as fold 214 h.Hidden fold (214 h) is the same as folds 214 e-g.

Elastic 216 is attached to bottom portions of the sides of fitted sheet200. Elastic 216 stretches to allow fitted sheet 200 to be placed overand around a mattress. Elastic 216 may tend to pull the edges of fittedsheet 200 under the mattress. Elastic 216 aids in holding fitted sheet200 on the mattress. In one embodiment, the side-pocket or medicalside-pocket are sewn on a full-size fitted sheet (e.g., a full-size twinbed fitted sheet) or on any other size sheet (e.g. full king size orqueen size fitted sheet). The discussion of t set of attachments 108 inthe rest of this specification is equally applicable to set ofattachments 208.

FIG. 2B shows a representation of an example of a fitted sheet 200having the set of attachments. Fitted sheet 200 has set of attachments218 attached to side portion 210 and side portion 211. Fitted sheet 200includes top portion 212 and folds 214 a-g and elastic 216. In otherembodiments, fitted sheet 200 may not have all of the features listedand/or may have other features instead of or in addition to thoselisted.

Fitted sheet 200, side portion 210, top portion 212, and folds 214 a-g,and elastic 216 were described in conjunction with FIG. 2A. In contrastto side 210, side 211 is the side of fitted sheet 200 that is expectedto be located where the user places their head when lying on fittedsheet 200, when fitted sheet 200 is located on bed 100. Alternatively oradditionally, side 211 is expected to be hidden from view when fittedbed sheet 200 is placed on bed 100. Set of attachments 218 is similar toset of attachments 208 except that set of attachments 218 is located onside 211 rather than side 210, and consequently, set of attachments 218is expected to be out of sight and/or located near where someone lyingon fitted sheet 200 would pace their head when fitted sheet 200 is onbed 100. The discussion of set of attachments 208 are otherwise (that isother than the location of set of attachments 208) equally applicable toset of attachments 218. The discussion of set of attachments 108 in theremainder of the specification is equally applicable to set ofattachments 218.

FIG. 3A shows a representation of an example of another sheet 300 havingthe set of attachments. Sheet 300 has set of holders 308 (the set ofattachments) and top portion 310. In other embodiments, sheet 300 maynot have all of the features listed and/or may have other featuresinstead of or in addition to those listed.

Set of holders 308 may be the same as set of holder 108, which werediscussed in conjunction with FIG. 1. Top portion 310 is a portion ofsheet 300 that is expected to be on top of a mattress when the mattressis covered with sheet 310.

FIG. 3B shows a representation of an example of another sheet 300 havingthe set of attachments. Sheet 300 has set of holders 318 (the set ofattachments) and top portion 310. In other embodiments, sheet 300 maynot have all of the features listed and/or may have other featuresinstead of or in addition to those listed.

Sheet 300 and top portion 310 were discussed in conjunction with FIG.3A. Set of holders 318 is similar to set of holders 308 except that setof holders 310 is placed at a location that is expected to be at a sideof the bed 100 where the user is expected to place their head, whensheet 300 may be placed bed 100. Set of holders 318 and set ofattachments 218 may be embodiments of set of attachments 118. Set ofattachments 118, set of attachments 208, set of attachments 218, set ofholders 308, and set of holders 318 may be embodiments of set ofattachments 108.

FIG. 4 shows a representation of an example of a portion of bedding(which may be referred to as bedding portion 406). Bedding portion 406may include pocket 408 having height H₄₀₈ and width W₄₀₈ and strap 410having width W₄₁₀. Bedding portion 406 may also be associated withdistances d₄₁₁, d₄₁₂, and d₄₁₄. In other embodiments, bedding 406 maynot have all of the features listed and/or may have other featuresinstead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 406 may be a portion of side 106 of mattress 100, side210 of fitted sheet 200 or of sheet 300. Bedding portion 406 is aportion of the bedding that is located at an edge of the mattress atwhich the user is expected to place their head. Whether the edge atwhich the user is expected to place their head is on the left or rightis not important. If the head is expected to be to the right of FIG. 4instead of the left, then the components of bedding portion 406 arearranged in the opposite order to form a mirror image of FIG. 4. Beddingportion 406 may be an embodiment of a portion of bed 100 having set ofattachments 108 or 118. Bedding portion 406 may an embodiment of aportion of side 210 or 211 of fitted bed sheet 200 having set ofattachments 208 or 218. Bedding portion 406 may an embodiment of aportion of bed sheet 300 having set of holders 308 or 318. Similarly,pocket 408, strap 410, or the combination of pocket 408 and strap 410may be an embodiment of set of attachments 108, 118, 208, or 218 or setof holders 308 or 318. The same applies to all of the embodimentsdescribed in this specification.

Pocket 408 is a single pocket, which in an embodiment is made from amesh material. In an alternative embodiment, pocket 408 is made from asolid material. Pocket 408 has a width of W₄₀₈ and a height of H₄₀₈. Inan embodiment, width W₄₀₈ is wide enough to hold one or more items ofinterest, such as a book, a defensive device (e.g., a Taser® or can ofmace), or other item. In an embodiment, width W₄₀₈ is narrow enough sothat a person that is lying in bed can easily reach items at the fartherend of the pocket and/or so that the person's hand is directed to alocation that is reasonably close to the items of interest. In anembodiment, width W₄₀₈ is 10 inches to 30 inches. In and embodiment,width 408 is 1 to 30 inches. Other embodiments of pocket 408 are furtherdescribed in conjunction with FIGS. 6 and 7F.

In an embodiment, height H₄₀₈ is high enough to securely hold theexpected items of interest, but is short enough so that the person canreach the bottom without having to sit up beyond a reclined position(the reclined position is discussed further in conjunction with FIGS. 18and 19). Alternatively, in another embodiment, the person can reach thetop of the pocket without sitting up from a reclined position.Alternatively, in another embodiment, the person can read the bottom ofthe pocket without sitting up. In an embodiment height H₄₀₈ may be 1inch to 2 inches. In other embodiments, height H₄₀₈ and width W₄₀₈ maybe of other distances.

Strap 410 is a band of material for holding another item of interest,which may be better held in place by a strap and/or easier to place inor take out of a strap than a pocket. For example, strap 410 may be forholding a set of glasses. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, pocket 408 islocated between strap 410 and the closer edge of a mattress (the closerof the head and the foot of the mattress). Width W₄₁₀ is a width that isappropriate for holding the item of interest that is expected to beplaced in strap 410. Width W₄₁₀ may be determined by the item ofinterest that is expected to be placed in strap 410. In an embodiment,width W₄₁₀ is 2 inches to 6 inches.

The distance d₄₁₁ is the distance from the top of the pocket 408 to thetop of strap 410, which may be 1 inch to 2 inches. Distance d₄₁₁ is adistance from the expected location of the top of the mattress andpocket 408. Distance d₄₁₄ is a distance between an edge of pocket 408and an end of the mattress. Distance d₄₁₁ and d₄₁₄ are determined suchthat a person of expected dimensions can access the items of interestwithout sitting up in bed. For example, distances d₄₁₁ and d₄₁₄ may bebased on the average dimensions of a particular population of people.The population of people may be based on an age group, a location,genetic dispositions, and/or racial features. For example, beddingmaterial intended for children of one particular age group may havedifferent values for distance d₄₁₁ and d₄₁₄ than bedding materialintended for another age group or other populations. The pockets of thisspecification may be a range of different sizes depending on theembodiment. A large pocket allows for more maneuverability, which may bedesirable for those having hands that lack dexterity. However, itemsthat are in a small pocket are easier to find, because there are fewerpossibilities of where the item may be located, which may be desirablefor people that cannot move easily within the bed and/or have poorfinger dexterity. When the sheet is on the bed, the opening of thepocket closes naturally as a result of the tension created by being heldto the mattress.

The pockets and/or straps on the beddings above may be of an appropriatesize and durability for holding glasses, toys, books, other amusementitems, writing utensils (e.g., pens or pencils), flashlights, cosmeticitems (such as eye liner, nail polish, lipstick), food items, drinks(e.g., a water bottle or juice box), and/or safety items (such as mace,a gun, horn, whistle, cell phone, or a Taser®).

As another example, distances d₄₁₁ and d₄₁₄ may be customized to thedimensions of an individual person and the bed and/or the sleepwear thatthe person is expected to use. Optionally, bedding portion 406 mayinclude other straps and/or pockets in addition to, or instead of,pocket 408 and strap 410.

FIG. 5 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 506.Bedding portion 506 may include pocket 508 having height H₅₀₈ and widthW₅₀₈, strap 510 having width W₅₁₀, and strap 512 having width W₅₁₁.Bedding portion 506 may also be associated with distances d₅₁₂, d₅₁₄,and d₅₁₆. In other embodiments, bedding portion 506 may not have all ofthe features listed and/or may have other features instead of or inaddition to those listed.

Pocket 508, height H₅₀₈, width W₅₀₈, strap 510, width W₅₁₀, distanced₅₁₁, distance d₅₁₄, and distance d₅₁₆ may be the same as pocket 408,height H₄₀₈, width W₄₀₈, strap 410, width W₄₁₀, distance d₄₁₁, distanced₄₁₂, and distance d₄₁₄, respectively, which were discussed above inconjunction with FIG. 4, except that pocket 408 is between strap 410 andthe closer edge of the bedding, whereas strap 510 is between pocket 508and the closer edge of the bedding. Additionally, portion of bedding 508has strap 512, which may be suited for holding a different type of itemthan strap 510. Consequently, width W₅₁₂ may be of a different widththan width W₅₁₀, according to the widths of the respective items thateach is intended to hold. In an embodiment, width W₅₁₂ (similar to widthW₅₁₀) may be between 2 inches and 6 inches. Bedding portion 506 may bean embodiment of a portion of bed 100 having set of attachments 108 or118. Bedding portion 506 may an embodiment of a portion of side 210 or211 of fitted bed sheet 200 having set of attachments 208 or 218.Bedding portion 506 may an embodiment of a portion of bed sheet 300having set of holders 308 or 318. Similarly, pocket 508, strap 510,strap 512, or the combination of pocket 508 and strap 510 and/or strap512 may be an embodiment of set of attachments 108, 118, 208, or 218 orset of holders 308 or 318.

In an embodiment, distance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄, are 17″+/−2″ for atwin size bed or fitted bed sheet, 18″+/−2″ for a full size bed orfitted bed sheet, 19″+/−2″ for a queen size bed or fitted bed sheet,20″+/−2″ for a king size bed or fitted bed sheet, 21″+/−2″ for aCalifornia size bed or fitted bed sheet, 20″+/−2″ for a extra long twinsize bed or fitted bed sheet.

In another embodiment, distance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄, are 18″+/−2″ fora twin size or full size fitted bed sheet, 20″+/−2″ for a queen size orking size fitted bed sheet, and, 21″+/−2″ for a California size, medicalsize, or extra long twin size fitted bed sheet.

In an embodiment, distance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄, are 20″+/−2″ for atwin size bed or fitted bed sheet, 24″+/−2″ for a full size fitted bedsheet, 25″+/−2″ for a queen size fitted bed sheet, 26″+/−2″ for a kingsize fitted bed sheet, 27″+/−2″ for a California king size fitted bedsheet or medical fitted bed sheet (depending of the style), 24″+/−2″ fora extra long twin size bed or fitted bed sheet.

In an embodiment, distance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄ are measured fromwhere the head of the bed is expected to be. In another embodimentdistance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄ are measured from the seam of the fittedbed sheet that is expected to be placed at the head of the bed. In anembodiment, all distances give for distance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄ arewithin plus or minus 2 inches. The seams may be located within an inchor two inches or 1 to 2 inches of the end of the bed. Based on geometry,the seams may lie at distance of (1−1/√2)˜0.293 times the radius of thecorner from the edge of the bed. The radius of the corner is typicallyabout 3 inches, but can be as much as 8 inches. Thus, as a result of thepulling the elastic, while on the bed the seam may be between 0.8″ and2.5″ from the edge. However, to ensure that the fitted sheet fits allmattresses, although the elastic may pull the seam closer, the lengthsof material used for making bed sheets are determined based on amattress with corners that have perfect 90 degree angles. Thus, thelength of material used between the seam the pocket is no different thanthe distance from the pocket to the edge of the bed, and consequentlyeither distance may be used for distance d₄₁₂ and distance d₅₁₄.

In an embodiment, pockets 408 and 508 have only a single section (e.g.,only a single compartment or pocket). In another embodiment, pockets 408and 508 may be divided into multiple pockets (e.g., 2, 3 or more). In anembodiment, although not shown, a second strap is located on beddingportion 406 such that strap 410 is located between the second strap andpocket 408 in a manner similar to that shown in FIG. 5 on beddingportion 506. Some embodiments of pockets 408 and 508 in which thepockets are divided into multiple pockets are discussed in conjunctionwith FIGS. 6-7G. In an embodiment, the pocket is made from a rectangularpiece of fabric that matches (e.g., is coordinated) with the patternand/or color of the rest of the sheet or other bedding to which thepocket is attached.

In one embodiment, the pockets described in this specification are madefrom one piece of fabric sewn so that the pocket is flush to a beddingportion, such as a fitted sheet, when the bedding portion is on the bed.In another embodiment, two or more adjacent pockets are sewn from two ormore pieces of material. In yet another embodiment, there are multiplepockets placed in different places on the sheet any of which may beadjacent to or separated from others of the pockets.

FIG. 6 shows a representation of an example of one type of pocket 608that may be used within the set of attachments of FIGS. 1A-5, such asfor pocket 408 or 508. Pocket 608 may include sections 618 and 620having lengths L_(A) and L_(B), respectively. Pocket 608 has twosections instead of just one. Length L_(A) may be greater than, the sameas, or smaller than length L_(B). In other embodiments, pocket 608 maynot have all of the features listed and/or may have other featuresinstead of or in addition to those listed. In one embodiment, a sectionis stitched to create a larger packet in which L_(A) (or L_(B)) is 9″ to25″ wide and an additional smaller pocket in which L_(B) (or L_(A)) is5″ to 8″ wide.

FIG. 7A shows an example of one type of pocket 708 that may be used forpocket 408 or 508. Pocket 708 may include sections 718, 720, and 722having lengths L_(I), L₂, and L₃, respectively. Pocket 708 has threesections instead of just the one depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5. Length L₁may be greater than, the same as, or smaller than length L₂ and L₃.Similarly, length L₂ may be greater than, the same as, or smaller thanlength L₁ and L₃, and length L₃ may be greater than, the same as, orsmaller than length L₁ and L₂. In other embodiments, pocket 708 may nothave all of the features listed and/or may have other features insteadof or in addition to those listed.

In an embodiment of FIG. 6 and FIG. 7A, pocket 608 and 708 may be formedfrom one segment of material that is sewn or otherwise segmented intomultiple compartments. In another embodiment, pockets 608 or 708 areformed from multiple segments (each being a separate piece of material)sewn or otherwise attached to the sheet or other bedding side-by-side toone another.

FIG. 7B shows a representation of an example of one type of pocket 730that may be used within the set of attachments of FIGS. 1A-5. Pocket 730has zipper 732, and pocket 730 may be used for pocket 408 or 508. In anembodiment, pocket 730 has one section, but has rounded corners insteadof square corners and may be made for a mesh material. Any of thepockets of this application may use a mesh material. A mesh materialallows dirt to fall out and therefore is less likely to accumulate dirtand bacteria. Alternatively another material may be used for pocket 732.Similarly, rounded corners are less likely to collect or otherwiseaccumulate dirt or bacteria, and therefore may be more appropriate forsterile environments or institutional environments, such as a hospital.In an embodiment the corners of the pocket are rounded to prevent theaccumulation of dirt and bacteria. Any of the pockets disclosed in thisspecification may have rounded corners instead of the square cornersdepicted in the figures. In another embodiment, the pocket has adifferent shape, such as a half circle, half oval, or a triangle, forexample. In other embodiments, pocket 730 may not have all of thefeatures listed and/or may have other features instead of, or inaddition to, those listed. Zipper 732 is an alternative to having thepocket open at the top. Pocket 730 may have an open top or anothermechanism of opening and closing instead of zipper 732. Any of thepockets of this specification may use a zipper or other mechanism foropening and closing the pocket.

In an embodiment in which the holder is a pocket, such as pockets 408,508, 608, 708, or 730, the pocket may open and close at a top portion ofthe pocket. In an embodiment, the piece of fabric is sewn so that it isflush with the bedding (e.g., a sheet, blanket, bed spread, or a portionof a mattress).

Pockets 408, 508, 608, 708, and 730 may be used for clipping pens orglasses. Optionally, a band or loop may be attached to the outside orinside of any of pockets 408, 508, 608, 708 or 730. Pockets 408, 508,608, 708 and 730 may be referred to as “Ergo Pockets,” because theplacement on the side of the bed is ergonomic for a bed ridden person.However, embodiments of the pockets may also be designed for and/or usedby a healthy individual and that may not be ergonomic for a bed riddenperson.

FIG. 7C shows a representation of an example of a cross-section of apocket 750. Pocket 750 may include reinforcing 752, front cloth 754,optional backing 756, and bedding 758. In other embodiments,cross-section of pocket 750 may not have all of the features listedand/or may have other features instead of or in addition to thoselisted.

Reinforcing 752 may be a hem, piece of cloth, a leather band, or anelastic band. Reinforcing 752 may be a fold at the top of the pocket toreinforce the top of the pocket, so that the pocket is less likely totear at the top. No matter how reinforcing 752 is made, reinforcing 752may reduce the likelihood of the top to the pocket tearing.

Front cloth 754 is a piece of cloth that is attached to the bedding toform pocket 750. Reinforcing 752 is located at the top of front cloth754.

Optional backing 756 is a piece of material attached to the back of thebedding to reinforce the bedding holding front cloth 754 in place.Optional backing 756 may be sewn to the side of the sheet or otherbedding that is expected to face the bed. Optional backing 756 is placedso that it is opposite the pocket (inside the sheet) formed by thebedding and front cloth 754. Optional backing 756 may support the weightof the pocket, to relieve stress on front cloth 754, and to create abondable surface to which to sew the pocket. Optional backing 756 mayreinforce the pocket area. In an embodiment, optional backing 756 may bemade from a material sold by the name Thermolan Plus under the brandname Pellon, having a thickness that in the fabric industry is referredto as medium or heavy. In an embodiment, optional backing 756 may bemade from the same materials commonly used for bed sheets. The materialof optional backing 756 may be doubled to add strength.

A durable thread may facilitate having a secure stitch. In an embodimentthe thread may be made from cotton, fleece, linen, polyester, or nylonthread, for example. In an embodiment, the thread is made from 100%nylon, T26, sold as upholstery thread under the brand name Coats andClark, CA0001. In another embodiment, a blend of polyester and cotton isused for the thread; which is sold as “heavy.” In another embodiment, ablend of polyester and nylon may be used for the thread. In anembodiment, another material is used that has an equivalent or greaterstrength than the polyester nylon blend, the polyester cotton blend, orthe nylon thread.

Bedding 758 is a portion of a sheet or other type of bedding to whichpocket 750 is attached. Optional backing 756 (if present) is attached toone side of bedding 758 (the side that faces the bed or is moredifficult to reach while in bed), and front cloth 754 is attached to theother side of bedding 758 (the side that faces away from the bed or iseasier to reach while in bed).

FIG. 7D shows a representation of an embodiment of a back side 760 of afront cloth that may be used to form a pocket within the set ofattachments of FIGS. 1A-5, such as front cloth 754. Back side 760 mayinclude hem 762 (or another reinforcing), folded portion 766, and foldedportion 768. In other embodiments, the back side 760 may not have all ofthe features listed and/or may have other features instead of or inaddition to those listed.

Back side 760 may be an embodiment of the back of front cloth 754. Hem762 is a fold at the top of back side 760 that is attached to back side760. Hem 762 may be an embodiment of reinforcing 752. If a hem is usedfor reinforcing, the hem of the pocket may be ¼″ long. Folded portions766 and 768 are portions at the edges of the back side 760 that arefolded and then attached (e.g., sewn) to back side 760. Pocket 750 maybe formed by attaching (e.g. sewing) back side 760 to bedding 758 atfolded portions 766 and 768. Folded portions 766 and 768 reinforce thelocation where the front cloth is attached to the bedding. In otherembodiments, other reinforcing may be used instead of folded portions766 and 768.

FIG. 7E shows a representation of an example of a portion of beddinghaving an embodiment of holder 770, as the set of attachments. Holder770 has bedding portion 772 having strap 774 with tacks 776 and 778. Inother embodiments, holder 770 may not have all of the features listedand/or may have other features instead of or in addition to thoselisted.

In an embodiment, a piece of strapping forms a loop attached to beddingportion 772, thereby forming strap 774. Bedding portion 772 may be apocket, which may be an embodiment of pocket 408 and 508. Strap 774 isattached to the front of bedding portion 772. In an alternativeembodiment, bedding portion 772 may be a portion of a sheet, mattress orother bedding and/or the strap may be sewn on or attached in anothermanner.

FIG. 7F shows a representation of an example of a cross-section of anembodiment of a holder 770 having bedding portion 772 having strap 774with tacks 776 and 778 and tack receptors 782 and 784. In otherembodiments, holder 770 may not have all of the features listed and/ormay have other features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Holder 770, bedding portion 772 (which may be the front cloth of apocket), strap 774, and tacks 776 and 778 were discussed above in FIG.7E. However, the cross-section shows an embodiment in which the edges ofstrap 774 are folded for reinforcing strap 774. Tack receptors 782 and784 receive and hold the ends of tacks 776 and 778 securely so thattacks 782 and 784 stay in place.

FIG. 7G shows a representation of an example of a cross-section of anembodiment of a holder 785 having bedding portion 772 having strap 774with tacks 776 and 778 and reinforcings 786 and 788. In otherembodiments, holder 770 may not have all of the features listed and/ormay have other features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 772 and strap 774 were discussed above in conjunctionwith FIGS. 7E and 7F. Holder 785 is similar to holder 770. However, thestrap 774 is not tacked on, but is sewn on to bedding portion 772.Reinforcings 786 and 788 are optional, but (if present) reinforcebedding portion 772 so that bedding portion 772 is less likely to tear.In an embodiment, strap 774 may be sewn to reinforcings 776 and 778.

In an embodiment of any of the holders of this specification, a strengthof thread is used that has a durability adequate for supporting thebacking and the types of items for which the holder is intended. Thedurability of the thread may be determined by an industry standard thatrelates to the thickness of the backing.

Different embodiments of the pocket or other holder will have differentdimensions. There are multiple embodiments for the placement of thepockets or other holders. There are multiple embodiments of the pocketand other holders that vary from one another in size and style. Thedimensions used in this specification can in general be varied by aneighth of an inch to obtain other embodiments without significantlyaffecting ease of use for a bed ridden person. Multiple embodiments alsomay exist that differ in their style. Embodiments of the bed sheets andother beddings that may be used may also vary according to size, shape,and style.

In an embodiment, the straps described above are 2″ in length and areplaced 1″ to 2″ (e.g., 1″) lower than the top edge of the pocket. Oneedge of the strap attaches to the edge of the pocket that is closer tothe part of the sheet that is intended to be placed at the head of thebed (the head of the bed may be an end of the bed that has the headboardor where the pillow is placed). The strap extends away from the pocketsuch that the other edge of the strap is 2″ to the side of the pocketsuch that the other edge of the strap is 2″ away from the pocket. Inanother embodiment, the strap may be 2″ to 6″ (e.g., 4″) in length. Inanother embodiment, there is a second strap in addition to, or insteadof, the first strap that is closer to the part of the sheet that isexpected to be at the head of the bed than the first strap. The secondstrap may be 2″ to 6″ wide and may be located such that there is a spaceof 2″ to 6″ between the second strap and the pocket.

Straps may be ⅛″ to ½″ (e.g., ¼″) in height. In another embodiment, anyof the straps of this application may have a height of 1″ plus or minus⅛^(th) of an inch. In another embodiment, any of the straps of thisapplication may have a height of 1″ plus or minus ½ of an inch. Theremay be a strap on the pocket, but the strap adds more stress to thepocket when located on the pocket. In an embodiment, the straps may betacked from the inside of the sheet or pocket so that the strap is lesslikely to fall off the sheet or other bedding than were the strap sewnon. In another embodiment, the strap is sewn on.

In an embodiment, the length of the pocket is 5″ to 7″ in depth (whichmay also be referred to as height). For example, the pocket may be 5″,6½″, or 7″ in height or is another height. In an embodiment, the widthof the pocket may be 1″ to 20″ or 1″ to 30″ (e.g., 10″, 14½″, or 19″).In another embodiment, the pocket may be any width up to being as wideas the length of the sheet and any height up until being as high as thethickness of the mattress for which the sheet is designed.

A 5″ wide pocket is a good size for storing mace or a horn. Books,amusement items, and Tasers® may be stored in an 8½″, 9½″, 10″, 14½″ or15″ wide pocket. Glasses, writing utensil, and pen lights may be storedin a 2″ long strap. Water bottles may be stored in a 4″ or 6″ longstrap. In an embodiment, the pocket is divided into two pockets—onepocket has a width of 5″, the other pocket, which is closer to the edge,has a length of 9½″, and the pocket has a depth of 7″. In anotherembodiment there are two adjacent pockets, each having a width of 9½″.In another embodiment, there are three pockets, two having a width of 5″and one having an 8½″ width in which the pocket that is 8½″ in width iscloser to the head of the bed. In another embodiment, the pocket may bedivided into three pockets, which are 15″, 8″, and 5″ wide in which thepocket that is 8½″ in width is closer to the head of the bed. In anotherembodiment, the pocket has a width of 14½″, and a height of 7″. In anembodiment, the pocket has a width of 10″ and a height of 5″, which isgood for use by people having limited mobility and poor fingerdexterity.

In an embodiment, the strap is placed on a side of the bed at a positionsuch that the edge of the strap that is closest to the head of the bedis 18″ to 21″ (e.g., 18″ or 19″) from a corner that is expected to beplaced at the head of the bed. In another embodiment, the closest edgeof the pocket is 18″ plus or minus 5″ from the nearest corner at thehead of the bed. For example, there may be an 11″ space from the headcorner followed by a 4″ strap, followed by a 2″ space, followed by a 2″strap. As another example, there may be an 11″ space followed by a 6″long strap followed by a 2″ space followed by the pocket. In yet anotherexample, there may be a 16″ to 18″ space followed by a 2″ long strapfollowed by the pocket.

In an embodiment, the top of the pocket may be placed 1″ to 1½″ belowthe top seam of the sheet (where the top seam is at the top of themattress when the sheet is on the bed). In an embodiment, if the part ofthe mattress is less than 8½ inches tall, the pocket may extend from 1″to 1½″ from the top seam to the bottom of the elastic of the fittedsheet. Alternatively, the pocket may only extend to a point on the sheetnear the bottom elastic that is far enough above the bottom elastic thatthe pocket is unlikely to extend under the mattress. For example, in anembodiment, if a mattress has depth of 4″, then the pocket can only be2½″ depth instead of standard.

FIG. 8 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 806having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 806includes pocket 808 and strap 806. In other embodiments, bedding portion806 may not have all of the features listed and/or may have otherfeatures instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 806, pocket 808, and strap 810 are embodiments ofbedding portion 408, pocket 408, and strap 410, respectively, describedin conjunction with FIG. 4. In FIG. 8, the distance from the top of thebed to pocket 408, d₄₁₁, is one inch (FIG. 4), and the distance from thehead of the bed (the closer end) to pocket 808, d₄₁₄ (FIG. 4), is 16inches. Similarly, the width of pocket 808, W₄₀₈ (FIG. 4), is 14.5inches and the height of pocket 808, H₄₀₈ (FIG. 4), is 5 inches. Also,the width of strap 810, W₄₁₀ (FIG. 4), is 4 inches. Pocket 808 ispositioned at a distance from the end of the bed and has a height thatis expected to be comfortable for an average sized child.

FIG. 9 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 906having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 906includes pocket 908 and strap 906. In other embodiments, bedding portion906 may not have all of the features listed and/or may have otherfeatures instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 906, pocket 908, and strap 910 are embodiments ofbedding portion 408, pocket 408, and strap 410, respectively, describedin conjunction with FIG. 4. Pocket 908 and strap 910 are similar topocket 808 and strap 810. Specifically, similar to FIG. 8, the distancefrom the top of the bed to pocket 908, d₄₁₁ (FIG. 4), is one inch, andthe width of pocket 908, W₄₀₈ (FIG. 4), is 14.5 inches. However, incontrast to bedding portion 806, in bedding portion 906, the distancefrom the closer end of the bed to pocket 908, d₄₁₄ (FIG. 4), is 18inches, and the height of pocket 908, H₄₀₈ (FIG. 4), is 6.5 inches.Pocket 908 is positioned at a distance from the end of the bed and has aheight that is expected to be comfortable for an average sized adult.

FIG. 10 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1006having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1006includes pocket 1008 and strap 1006. In other embodiments, beddingportion 1006 may not have all of the features listed and/or may haveother features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 1006, pocket 1008, strap 1010, and strap 1012 areembodiments of bedding portion 506, pocket 508, strap 510, and strap512, respectively, described in conjunction with FIG. 5. Pocket 1008corresponds to pocket 508, but is an embodiment of pocket 708 (FIG. 7A).In FIG. 10, the distance from the top of the bed to pocket 1008, d₅₁₄(FIG. 5), is one inch, and the distance from the closer end of the bedto pocket 1008, d₅₁₆ (FIG. 5), is 19 inches. Similarly, the height ofpocket 1008, H₄₀₈ (FIG. 4), is 6.5 inches. Also, the width of strap1010, W₅₁₀ (FIG. 5), is 2 inches, and the width of strap 1012, W₅₁₂(FIG. 5), is 4 inches. Pocket 1008 is positioned at a distance from theend of the bed and has a height that is expected to be comfortable foran average sized adult. However, pocket 1008 has three sections. Pocket1008 is an embodiment of pocket 708 in which the width of section 1018,L₁ (FIG. 7A), is 15 inches, the width of section 1020, L₂ (FIG. 7A) is 8inches, and the width of section 1022, L₃ (FIG. 7A) is 5 inches.

FIG. 11 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1106having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1106includes pocket 1108, strap 1110, strap 1112, and sections 1118, 1120,and 1122. In other embodiments, bedding portion 1106 may not have all ofthe features listed and/or may have other features instead of or inaddition to those listed.

Bedding portion 1106 and strap 1110 are embodiments of bedding portion506, pocket 508, and strap 510, respectively, described in conjunctionwith FIG. 5. Pocket 1108 corresponds to pocket 508, but is an embodimentof pocket 708 (FIG. 7A). Additionally, pocket 1108, strap 1110, andsections 1118, 1120, and 1122 are the same as pocket 1008, strap 1010,and sections 1018, 1020, and 1022, which were described in conjunctionwith FIG. 10. However, in contrast to bedding portion 1006, strap 1112is 5 inches instead of 4 inches wide.

FIG. 12 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1206having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1206includes pocket 1208, strap 1210 sections 1218, 1220, and 1222. In otherembodiments, bedding portion 1206 may not have all of the featureslisted and/or may have other features instead of or in addition to thoselisted.

Bedding portion 1206 and strap 1210 are embodiments of bedding portion508, pocket 508, and strap 510, respectively, described in conjunctionwith FIG. 5. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 12, there is no strapthat corresponds to strap 512. Also, pocket 1208 corresponds to pocket508, but is an embodiment of pocket 708 (FIG. 7A). The height of pocket1208, H₅₀₈ (FIG. 5), is 6.5 inches. The length of section 1218, L₁ (FIG.7A), is 5 inches. The length of section 1220, L₂ (FIG. 7A), is 5 inches.The length of section 1222, L₃ (FIG. 7A), is 8 inches. The length ofstrap 1210, W₅₁₀ (FIG. 5), is 4 inches. The distance from pocket 1208 tothe closer edge (the head of the bed), d₅₁₄ (FIG. 5), is 18 inches. Thedistance from pocket 1208 to the top edge, d₅₁₆ (FIG. 5), is 1 inch.

FIG. 13 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1306having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1306includes pocket 1308, strap 1310, and section 1318, section 1320, andsection 1322. In other embodiments, bedding portion 1306 may not haveall of the features listed and/or may have other features instead of orin addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 1306 and strap 1310 are embodiments of bedding portion506, pocket 508, and strap 510, respectively, described in conjunctionwith FIG. 5. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 12 there is no strapthat corresponds to strap 512 (FIG. 5). Also, pocket 1208 corresponds topocket 508 (FIG. 5), but is an embodiment of pocket 708 (FIG. 7A).Sections 1318, 1320 and 1322 are the same as sections 1218, 1220, and1222, which were described in FIG. 12. Additionally, pocket 1308 strap1310 correspond to pocket 1208 and strap 1210, which were also describedin conjunction with FIG. 12. However, section 1322 is 8.5 inches wide(instead of the 8 inches used for 1222) and strap 1310 is 5 inches lone(instead of the 4 inches used for strap 1210). Similar to FIG. 12, thedistance from pocket 1308 to the closer edge, d₅₁₄ (FIG. 5), is 18inches. The distance from pocket 1308 to the top edge, d₅₁₆ (FIG. 5), is1 inch.

FIG. 14 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1406having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1406includes pocket 1408, strap 1410, and strap 1412. In other embodiments,bedding portion 1406 may not have all of the features listed and/or mayhave other features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 1406, strap 1410, and strap 1412 are embodiments ofbedding portion 506, pocket 508, strap 510, and strap 512 respectively,described in conjunction with FIG. 5. Pocket 1408 corresponds to pocket508, but is an embodiment of pocket 608 (FIG. 6), and sections 1418 and1420 are embodiments of sections 618 and 620. In the embodiment of FIG.14 the length of each of the pockets, L_(A) and L_(B) (FIG. 6), is 9.5inches. The distance from pocket 1408 to the closer edge, d₅₁₄ (FIG. 5),is 19 inches. The distance from pocket 1408 to the top edge, d₅₁₆ (FIG.5), is 1 inch. Strap 1410 is 2 inches wide similar to several otherexamples discussed above, but strap 1412 is 6 inches wide. Straps 1410and 1412 are two separate straps that are adjacent to one another. In analternative embodiment, straps 1410 and 1412 are replaced with one straphaving two sections, one section that is 2 inches wide and anothersection that is 6 inches wide.

FIG. 15 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1506having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1506includes pocket 1508 and strap 1510. In other embodiments, beddingportion 1506 may not have all of the features listed and/or may haveother features instead of, or in addition to, those listed.

Bedding portion 1506 and strap 1510 are embodiments of bedding portion506 and strap 510, respectively, described in conjunction with FIG. 5.However, in the embodiment of FIG. 15 there is no strap that correspondsto strap 512. Also, pocket 1508 corresponds to pocket 508, but is anembodiment of pocket 730 (FIG. 7B), in which the corners of the pockethave been rounded. Pocket 1508 has a height, H₅₀₈ (FIG. 5), of 5 inches,and has a width, W₅₀₈ (FIG. 5), of 10 inches. Pocket 1508 is a distance,d₅₁₄ (FIG. 5), from the closer edge of 20 inches, and is a distance d₅₁₆(FIG. 5), from the top edge of 1 inch. Strap 1510 has a width, W₅₁₀(FIG. 5), of 2 inches wide.

FIG. 16 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1606having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1606includes pocket 1608 and strap 1610. In other embodiments, beddingportion 1606 may not have all of the features listed and/or may haveother features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 1606, pocket 1608, and strap 1610 are embodiments ofbedding portion 506, pocket 508, and strap 510, respectively, describedin conjunction with FIG. 5. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 16 thereis no strap that corresponds to strap 512. Pocket 1608 has a height,H₅₀₈ (FIG. 5), of 6.5 inches, and has a width, W₅₀₈ (FIG. 5), of 14.5inches. Pocket 1608 is a distance, d₅₁₄ (FIG. 5), from the closer edgeof 18 inches, and is a distance d₅₁₆ (FIG. 5) from the top edge of 1inch. Strap 1610 has a width, W₅₁₀ (FIG. 5), of 1 inch wide. Theembodiment of FIG. 16 is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9, exceptthat the strap of FIG. 16 is 2 inches wide, whereas in the embodiment ofFIG. 9 the strap is 4 inches wide. Also, the strap of FIG. 16 is betweenthe pocket and the closest edge, whereas in FIG. 9 the pocket is betweenthe strap and the closest edge.

FIG. 17 shows a representation of an example of a bedding portion 1706having an embodiment of a set of attachments. Bedding portion 1706includes pocket 1708 and strap 1710. In other embodiments, beddingportion 1706 may not have all of the features listed and/or may haveother features instead of or in addition to those listed.

Bedding portion 1706, pocket 1708, and strap 1710 are embodiments ofbedding portion 506, pocket 508, and strap 510, respectively, describedin conjunction with FIG. 5. Pocket 1708 is an embodiment of pocket 608of FIG. 6 in which section 1718 is an embodiment of section 618 and hasa width, L_(A) (FIG. 6), of 9.5 inches. Similarly, section 1720 is anembodiment of section 620 and has a width, L_(B) (FIG. 6), of 5 inches.Similar to FIG. 16, in the embodiment of FIG. 17 there is no strap thatcorresponds to strap 512 (FIG. 5). Similar to FIG. 16, pocket 1708 has aheight, H₅₀₈ (FIG. 5), of 6.5 inches, and has a width, W₅₀₈, of 14.5inches. Pocket 1708 is a distance, d₅₁₄ (FIG. 5), from the closer edgeof 18 inches, and is a distance d₅₁₆, from the top edge of 1 inch. Strap1710 has a width, W₅₁₀ (FIG. 5) of 2 inches wide.

In any of the embodiments of this specification, the bedding (e.g., asheet) may be sold with a medium (e.g., a compact disc, piece of paper,or DVD) having instructions (e.g., audio, video, or text instructions)thereon. The instructions explain how to place and orient the bedding(e.g., how to place the bed sheet on the bed), such that the attachmentsare located near the head of bed on the side in which the user will belocated. The instructions may also explain what size the people, beds,and pillows are expected to work best with the bedding. In anembodiment, the bedding is marked indicating a particular end is to belocated at the head and/or foot of the bed to ensure that theattachments are located in a convenient location. In another embodimentthe bedding (e.g., the sheet or the mattress) has attachments near allfour corners so that no matter which way the bedding it oriented a setof attachments will be located in convenient reach of someone lying inthe bed.

In any of the embodiments of this specification, the bedding may be soldtogether in a kit including a pillow and/or pillow case that is intendedto be used with the bedding and/or items that are intended to be storedin the attachments. For example, one of the attachments may be a strapthat holds a water bottle, and the kit may include a water bottle thatfits in the strap. As another example, one of the attachments may be apocket with a section (e.g., a compartment) for a can of mace, a horn, awhistle, and/or a Taser® and the kit may include a can of mace, a horn,a whistle, and/or a Taser®, respectively.

In an embodiment any of the embodiments of FIGS. 4-17 may be used withany size bed sheet. In another embodiment, the embodiment of FIG. 8 isfor a children's fitted bed sheet, the embodiments of FIGS. 9, 12, 13,16, and 17 are for a full size fitted bed sheet, but could also be usedfor a twin size mattress fitted bed sheet, the embodiments of FIGS. 10,11 and 14 are for a queen size fitted bed sheet, and the embodiment ofFIG. 15 is for a king size or extra long full size fitted sheet, butcols also be used for a queen size fitted sheet.

FIG. 18 shows a top view of a representation of an example of a scenario1800 in which a person is using a set of attachments. Scenario 1800 hasmattress 1802, pillow 1804, person 1806, upper arm 1808, and forearm1810, which are associated with d_(pocket), d_(upperarm), andd_(forearm). In other embodiments, scenario 1800 may not have all of thefeatures listed and/or may have other features instead of or in additionto those listed.

Scenario 1800 shows some factors that may be used to determine thelocation at which to place the pocket. Mattress 1802 may be the same asmattress 106. Pillow 1804 may be the same as pillow 110. Person 1806 isa person for which the location of a pocket is being determined. Upperarm 1808 is the upper arm of person 1806. Upper arm 1808 includes theshoulder of person 1806. Forearm 1810 is the forearm of person 1806.Distance d_(pocket) is the distance from the edge of the bed where thehead is placed to the location of the pocket. Distance d_(pocket) isdetermined according to the location where the person 1806 would placetheir hand when reaching the side of mattress 1802. Distance d_(pillow)is the distance from the edge of the bed where the head will be locatedto the shoulders of the person, which in some cases may be the edge ofpillow 1804 that is furthest from the edge of mattress 1802. Distanced_(upperarm) is the distance along the length of the bed that issubtended by upper arm 1808. In an embodiment, distance d_(upperarm) issignificantly shorter than upper arm 1808, because upper arm 1808extends in a direction that is nearly perpendicular with the directionthat extends along the length of person 1806. Similarly, distanced_(forearm) is the distance along the length of the mattress 1802 thatis subtended by forearm 1810. The sum of d_(pillow), d_(upperarm), andd_(forearm) is equal to d_(pocket). Thus, by measuring d_(pillow),d_(upperarm), and d_(forearm) the distance from the edge of the bed tothe pocket, which is d_(pocket), can be determined.

Some ways in which the person may reach the pocket are as follows. Aperson may sit in bed about as far from the side edge of the bed as whenthey are sleeping. In one embodiment, the person may lean against aheadboard with one or more pillows between them and the headboard. Thento reach the pocket, the person may extend their arm diagonally towardsthe side of the bed. In this scenario, d_(forearm) and d_(upperarm) maybe about 75% of the length of the forearm and upper arm (or betweenabout 93% and 50% of the length of the forearm and upper arm), becausethe forearm and upper arm may make about a 30 degree (plus or minusabout 15 degrees) angle with the bed and about a 30 degree (plus orminus about 15 degrees) angle with the edge of the bed. However, if theperson sits up in bed, their upper arm may make about a 60 degree angle(plus or minus about 15 degrees) with the surface of the and with theedge of the bed. Consequently, the length d_(upperarm) may only be about25% of the length of the upper arm (or between about 6% and 50%).

In another embodiment, while the person is lying on their back, theperson may extend the arm that is closest to the edge of the bed suchthat their elbow is either above the bed but near the edge or slightlybeyond the edge of the bed (or anywhere in between). Then their forearmis extended a slight angle downwards allowing their hand to reach into aholder, such as a pocket. If no attachments are placed beyond thispoint, then the person will be able to reach the set of attachmentswhile still lying down and without moving their entire body to the edgeof the bed.

In yet another embodiment, the person moves their entire body to theedge of the bed, such that their shoulder is either slightly beyond theedge of the bed or over the bed, but next to the edge (or anywhere inbetween). Then the upper arm is extended forwards, along the edge of thebed at a slight angle to the top of the bed, and the forearm is extendedalongside the bed and parallel to the length of the bed. For people thatare comfortable and agile enough for this position, the furthestattachments of the set of attachments may be located such that theperson may place items in and remove items from a holder while theperson is in this position at the edge of the bed, which issignificantly further from the head of the bed than the equivalentdistances of the first two embodiments. Depending on the agility of theperson for which the bedding is intended and the maximum degree ofdiscomfort that the person is expected to be willing to experience whenretrieving or storing items, one of these two locations may be used asan upper bound for the furthest from the head of the bed that a holdershould be placed.

In an embodiment, while lying down, a person may also roll over onequarter of a roll and reach the side of the bed with their arm that isfurthest from the edge of the bed having the set of attachments. Thepoint where the person's hand can reach while rolled over one quarter ofthe way is approximately d_(pillow) or slightly less than d_(pillow).Alternatively, some people may be comfortable with sitting up in bed,placing themselves near the edge of the bed, and reaching downwards,possibly at a slight angle, to reach an item in a holder from the set ofattachments. For such people, a holder may be located somewhat closer tothe head of the bed (e.g., d_(pillow) minus the amount the forearm andupper arm subtend along the length of the bed). The set of attachmentsmay be located anywhere further away from the head of the bed than oneof these two locations, depending on the agility of the population forwhich the set of attachments are intended (e.g., depending on whetherthat population can comfortably sit up in bed or roll over a one quarterroll in bed). For people that have difficulty sitting up, d_(pillow) orslightly less may be the closest that any of the set of attachmentsshould be placed to the head of the bed and for those that cannot sit upbut can roll over, d_(pillow) minus the sum of d_(forearm) andd_(upperarm) (which in this case may only be a small fraction of thelength of the forearm and upper arm, respectively) may be the closest tothe head of the bed that any of the attachments should be placed.

In order to make a bedding that has a set of attachments that iscustomized for a particular individual, the individual lies down onmattress 1802 in the manner in which that person usually lies in bed(e.g., using a pillow that is positioned where the person usually placesthe pillow and using a pillow of a size that the person usually uses),and an outline person is drawn onto a piece of material (e.g., a pieceof bedding) that is under person 1806. Then, based on the outline,d_(pocket) is determined, which may involve determining d_(pillow),d_(upperarm), and/or d_(forearm) (also based on the outline). In anembodiment, instead of customizing the location of the set ofattachments for a particular individual, the location is customized to aperson of average dimensions relative to a particular population ofpeople. For example, a person of average dimensions within a particularage group (e.g., an averaged dimensioned eight year old child) may beused for determining the location of a set of attachments for that agegroup (e.g., all eight year olds). The bedding may be sold with anindication as to the population of people (e.g., the age group) that areexpected to find the location of the set of attachments comfortable.

FIG. 19 shows side view 1900 of scenario 1800, having mattress 1802,pillow 1804, person 1806, upper arm 1808, forearm 1810, and pocket 1902,which are associated with d_(pocket), d_(pillow), d_(upperarm), andd_(forearm). In other embodiments, side view 1900 may not have all ofthe features listed and/or may have other features instead of or inaddition to those listed.

Mattress 1802, pillow 1804, person 1806, upper arm 1808, forearm 1810,d_(pocket), d_(pillow), d_(upperarm), and d_(forearm) were discussed inconjunction with FIG. 18, above. Side view 1900 is a side view ofscenario 1800 in which set of attachments 1902 is visible. Set ofattachments 1902 may be any of the attachments discussed in thisspecification. In an embodiment, the further end of set of attachments1902 is at about the end of (e.g., within an ⅛ of an inch of) whereperson 1806 is capable of reaching while lying down. Then d_(forearm) issomewhat shorter than the length of the forearm 1810, because forearm1810 is angled slightly downward and somewhat outward while reachinginto set of attachments 1902. For use while lying down, as a roughapproximation, d_(pocket) is roughly d_(pillow) plus the length of theforearm, because d_(forearm) is slightly less than the length of forearm1810, but d_(upperarm) makes up for the difference. However, this isonly a rough approximation, because d_(upperarm) is usuallysignificantly greater than the difference between d_(forearm) and thelength of forearm 1810.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an example of a method of making beddinghaving one of the sets of attachments discussed in this application. Instep 2002 a piece of bedding to which the set of attachments will beattached is formed. If the piece of bedding is a mattress, the mattressis formed. If the piece of bedding is a blanket or bedspread, theblanket or bedspread is formed. If the piece of bedding is a sheet, apiece of fabric is cut to a desired shape (e.g., a rectangle) accordingto the mattress for which it is designed. Hems may be formed at one ormore edges of the sheet to prevent tearing. If the piece of bedding is afitted sheet for a rectangular bed, a rectangular piece of material iscut, the corners may be cut out, and then sewn together forming a sheetthat has the shape of a mattress. Then, elastic may be attached to thebottom of edge of the fitted sheet.

In step 2004, the location of the set of attachments is determined. Step2004 may involve determining d_(pocket), which in turn may involvedetermining d_(pillow), d_(upperarm), and d_(forearm). The distanced_(pillow) may be determined by determining the dimensions of thepillow, by determining the size of the pillow that an average personnormally uses, an average person of a particular population normallyuses, and/or where that person's shoulders will be when reclining inbed, or that a particular person normally uses (for a customizedlocation). The distances d_(upperarm) and d_(forearm) may be determinedbased on the dimensions of an average person, an average person of aparticular population (and of a particular agility), or of a particularperson (for a customized location).

In step 2006, the set of attachments is attached to the piece of beddingat the location determined by step 2004, which may involve attaching oneor more pockets and/or straps to the piece of bedding. Step 2006 mayinvolve three sub-steps. In sub-step 2008, optionally, a piece ofmaterial may be cut to a size that is about the desired size of thepocket and/or strap, respectively, and the piece of material may be sewnto one side of the bedding, as reinforcement.

Then, in sub-step 2010, a piece of material may be cut to a size that islarger than the desired size of the pocket and/or strap.

In sub-step 2012, if a pocket is being attached, a hem may be formed atthe top of the piece of material. Then in sub-step 2014, the side edgesmay be folded over to reinforce the sides. Next in sub-step 2016, theside edges and bottom of the piece of material are sewn to the bedding.If the backing is present, the piece of material is sewn on the oppositeside of the bedding as the backing, but the piece of material is sewnonto the backing, so that the backing, bedding, and front are arrangedin a configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 7C. If a pocket isbeing made, and if the pocket is intended to have multiple sections, insub-step 2018, one or more lines on the front are sewn or otherwiseattached to the bedding, where the lines extend up and down the pocketand separate the pocket into sections (e.g., compartments).

If the set of attachments include straps not yet attached in the earliersteps, in sub-step 2020, one or more straps are attached to the bedding.Sub-step 2020 may involve folding the ends of the strap and then sewingthe ends of the strap to the bedding at the folded regions. Additionallyor alternatively, the tacks may secure the ends of the strap to thebedding. If backing material was attached to the other side of thebedding in the vicinity where the strap is supposed to be located, thestrap may be sewn to the backing.

In an embodiment, each of the steps of method 2000 is a distinct step.In another embodiment, although depicted as distinct steps in FIG. 20,step 2002-2020 may not be distinct steps. In other embodiments, method2000 may not have all of the above steps and/or may have other steps inaddition to or instead of those listed above. The steps of method 2000may be performed in another order. Sub-steps of the steps and sub-stepsof the sub-steps listed above as part of method 2000 may be used to formtheir own method.

In an embodiment, a kit may be sold or given to people wanting acustomized bed sheet with recorded information that is useful inpreparing the customized bed sheet. The kit may include a sheet, amarker for marking the sheet, and a medium (e.g., a compact disc, pieceof paper, or DVD) having instructions (e.g., audio, video, or textinstructions) thereon. The instructions explain how to mark the sheet toindicate a positioning of a particular individual while the individualis lying on the sheet and reaching for an item on a side of the bed.

FIG. 21 shows a flowchart of an example of a method of using the set ofattachments. In step 2102, the bedding (e.g., a fitted sheet) having aset of attachment is placed on a mattress, unless the bedding is amattress. In step 2104, a person gets into (e.g., sits in a recliningposition) in the bed. In step 2106, while (e.g., in the recliningposition) in bed, the person places an item in a holder of the set ofattachments. Step 2106 may involve the person extending their armdiagonally (e.g., making about a 30 degree angle with the surface of thebed and a 30 degree angle with the side of the bed), and placing theitem into the holder. Step 2106 may include the person storing the itemin the holder for a desired period of time. In step 2108, whilereclining in bed, the person removes the item from the holder. Step 2108may involve the person extending their arm until the elbow and forearmis slightly beyond the edge of the bed (similar to step 2106), anglingthe forearm slightly downwards (similar to step 2106), optionallyreaching into the holder (depending on the nature of the item and itsrelationship to the holder), and removing the item in the holder (incontrast to step 2106). In an alternative embodiment method 2100 may beperformed with the person lying down instead of reclining in bed.

In an embodiment, each of the steps of method 2100 is a distinct step.In another embodiment, although depicted as distinct steps in FIG. 21,step 2102-2108 may not be distinct steps. In other embodiments, method2100 may not have all of the above steps and/or may have other steps inaddition to or instead of those listed above. The steps of method 2100may be performed in another order. Sub-steps of the steps listed aboveas part of method 2100 may be used to form their own method.

Each embodiment disclosed herein may be used or otherwise combined withany of the other embodiments disclosed. Any element of any embodimentmay be used in any embodiment.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specificembodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatvarious changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted forelements thereof without departing from the true spirit and scope of theinvention. In addition, modifications may be made without departing fromthe essential teachings of the invention.

1. A system comprising: a fitted bed sheet, the fitted bed sheet havinga top section, four side sections, each of the four side sections havinga top edge, two side edges, and a bottom edge, and an elastic strip;each edge of the top section of the fitted bed sheet is connected to thetop edge of a different of one of the four side sections, each of thefour side sections being connected to two other side sections of thefour side sections; the elastic strip connected to each of the four sidesections at the bottom edge of the side section; a first piece ofmaterial attached to the fitted bed sheet forming a pocket for storingitems, which is positioned on one of the four side sections of thefitted bed sheet, the location of the piece of material being based ondimensions of an average sized person and on dimensions of the bedsheet; the first piece of material having at least one edge that forms atop opening of the pocket, which will be referred to as a toppocket-edge, the top pocket-edge being straight, horizontal, 14.5 incheswide, and parallel to the top edge of the one of the four side sectionsto which the pocket is attached; the first piece of material having afirst side edge and a second side edge, which are each 5 inches high,the first side edge of the first material having at least a portion thatis closed, straight, parallel to at least a portion of the second sideedge of the first piece of material, and perpendicular to the toppocket-edge; the portion of the second side-edge of the first piece ofmaterial to which the first side edge of the first piece of material isparallel is also straight, the second side edge of the first piece ofmaterial is also closed; a bottom edge, of the first piece of material,that is closed, and has at least a portion that is  straight, and parallel to the top pocket-edge; the first piece of material being sewnto lie flat against the fitted sheet such that when the fitted sheet ison a mattress, tension pulling the fitted sheet to fit on the mattresstends to pull the pocket closed, the first piece of material is on aside of the fitted sheet that is designed to face away from the bed; anda second piece of material having a width of 4 inches and a height thatis less than the width of the second piece of material; the second pieceof material being attached to the bed sheet forming a strap for holdingitems, and the second piece of material being adjacent to the pocket;the second piece of material having at least one edge that forms a topopening of the strap, which will be referred to as a top strap-edge, thetop-strap edge being straight, horizontal, and parallel to the top edgeof one of the four side sections of the fitted bed sheet to which thesecond piece of material is attached; the second piece of materialhaving a first side edge and a second side edge, the one of the fourside sections of the fitted bed sheet to which the first piece ofmaterial is attached having a closer side edge and further side edge,the closer side edge being closer to the first piece of material thanthe further side edge, the second piece of material being fastened tothe fitted bed sheet at a region between the first piece of material andone of the closer side edge of the one of the four side sections of thefitted bed sheet to which the first piece of material is attached; abottom edge that is open, straight, and parallel to the top strap-edge;the second piece of material also being sewn to lie flat against thefitted sheet such that when the fitted sheet is on a mattress, tensionpulling the fitted sheet to fit on the mattress tends to pull the strapclosed.
 2. The system of claim 1, the first piece of material that formsthe pocket is located at a distance of 1 inch away from the top edge ofthe one of the four side sections of the bed sheet to which the firstpiece of material and the second piece of material are attached.
 3. Thesystem of claim 1, the location of the first piece of material on thebed sheet is such that when the bed sheet is placed on a bed in anexpected manner, an averaged sized person can comfortably reach the itemstored while sitting up in a reclined position at a location in the bedwhere an average person sleeps.
 4. The system of claim 1, one of thefirst side edge and the second side edge of the first piece of materialbeing located 16 inches from one of the two sides of the one of the fourside sections of the fitted bed sheet to which the first piece ofmaterial is attached or located a distance that is expected to be 16inches from one end of the bed when the bed sheet is on the bed.
 5. Thesystem of claim 1, the top strap-edge of the second piece of materialbeing located 1 to 2 inches below the top pocket-edge of the first pieceof material.
 6. The system of claim 1, the second piece of materialhaving a height of ½ of an inch to 1½ inches.
 7. A system comprising: afitted bed sheet, the fitted bed sheet having a top section, four sidesections, each of the four side sections having a top edge, two sidesedges, and a bottom edge, and an elastic strip; each edge of the topsection of the fitted bed sheet is connected to the top edge of adifferent one of the four side sections, each of the four side sectionsbeing connected to two other side sections of the four side sections;the elastic strip connected to each of the four side sections at thebottom edge of the side section; and a pocket attached to the fitted bedsheet forming a plurality of pocket sections for storing items, thepocket is positioned on one of the four side sections of the fitted bedsheet, the location of the pocket being based on dimensions of anaverage sized person and on dimensions of the bed sheet; the pockethaving at least a top edge that forms a top opening of the pocket, thetop edge of the pocket being straight, horizontal, and parallel to thetop edge of the one of the four side sections to which the pocket isattached; the pocket being sewn to lie flat against the fitted sheetsuch that when the fitted sheet is on the mattress, tension pulling thefitted sheet to fit on the mattress tends to pull the pocket closed; thepocket is on a side of the fitted sheet that is designed to face awayfrom the bed; the pocket having a height of 6.5 inches, a first sideedge and a second side edge, the first side edge of the pocket having atleast a portion that is  closed,  straight,  parallel to at least aportion of the second side edge of the pocket, and  perpendicular to thetop edge of the pocket; the portion of the second side-edge of thepocket to which the first edge is parallel is also straight; the secondside-edge of the pocket is also closed; a bottom edge, of the pocket,that is closed, has at least a portion that is  straight, and  parallelto the top edge of the pocket; and the plurality of pocket sectionsincluding two pocket sections each having a pocket structure that formsa pouch and are formed side by side and touching one another; eachpocket section having two side edges that are closed and each pocketsection having a bottom edge that is a portion of the bottom edge of thepocket; the pocket having a width of 14.5 inches, the two pocketsections including a larger pocket section that is 9.5 inches wide and asmaller pocket section that is 5 inches wide; a piece of materialforming a strap having a width of 2 inches and a height that is lessthan the width of the piece of material; the piece of material beingattached to the fitted bed sheet forming a strap for holding items, andthe piece of material being adjacent to the pocket; the piece ofmaterial having at least a top edge that forms a top opening of thestrap, which will be referred to as a top strap-edge, the top strap-edgebeing straight, horizontal, and parallel to the top edge of the one ofthe four side sections to which the piece of material is attached; thepiece of material having a first side edge and a second side edge, theone of the four side sections, of the fitted bed sheet to which thepocket is attached, having a closer side edge and further side edge, thecloser side edge being closer to the pocket than the further side edge,the strap being fastened to the fitted bed sheet at a region between thepocket and the closer side edge of the one of the four side sections ofthe fitted bed sheet to which the pocket is attached; a bottom edge thatis open, straight, and parallel to the top strap-edge; and the piece ofmaterial also being sewn to lie flat against the fitted sheet such thatwhen the fitted sheet is on a mattress, tension pulling the fitted sheetto fit on the mattress tends to pull the strap closed.
 8. The system ofclaim 7, one of the first side edge of the pocket and the second sideedge of the first pocket being located 18 inches from one of the twosides of the one of the four side sections of the fitted bed sheet towhich the first piece of material is attached or located a distance thatis expected to be 18 inches from one end of the bed when the fitted bedsheet is on the bed.
 9. The system claim 7, the top opening of thepocket being 1 inch from the top edge of the one of the four sidesections of the fitted bed sheet to which the pocket is attached. 10.The system of claim 6, the top strap-edge of the piece of material beinglocated 1 to 2 inches below the top pocket-edge of the pocket.
 11. Thesystem of claim 7, the piece of material having a height of ½ of an inchto inches.
 12. A system comprising: a fitted bed sheet, the fitted bedsheet having a top section, four side sections, each of the four sidesections having a top edge, two side edges, and a bottom edge, and anelastic strip; each edge of the top section of the fitted bed sheet isconnected to the top edge of a different one of the four side sections,each of the four side sections being connected to two other sidesections of the four side sections; the elastic strip connected to eachof the four side sections at the bottom edge of the side section; apocket attached to the fitted bed sheet forming a plurality of pocketsections for storing items, the pocket is positioned on the one of thefour side sections of the fitted bed sheet; the location of the pocketbeing based on dimensions of an average sized person and on dimensionsof the bed sheet; the pocket having at least a top edge that forms a topopening of the pocket, the edge being straight, horizontal, and parallelto the top edge of the one of the four side sections to which the pocketis attached; the pocket being sewn to lie flat against the fitted sheetsuch that when the fitted sheet is on a mattress, tension pulling thefitted sheet to fit on the mattress tends to pull the pocket closed, thepocket is on a side of the fitted sheet that is designed to face awayfrom the bed; the pocket having a height of 6.5 inches, a first sideedge and a second side edge, the first side edge of the pocket having atleast a portion that is  closed,  straight,  parallel to at least aportion of the second side edge of the pocket, and  perpendicular to thetop edge of the pocket; the portion of the second side-edge of thepocket to which the first edge is parallel is also straight; the secondside-edge of the pocket of material is also closed; a bottom edge, ofthe pocket, that is closed, has at least a portion that is  straight and parallel to the top edge of the pocket; and the pocket including threepocket sections formed side by side and touching one another, eachpocket section having a pocket structure forming a pouch; each pocketsection having two side edges that are closed and each pocket sectionhaving a bottom edge that is a portion of the bottom edge of the pocket;the pocket having a width of 28 inches, the three pocket sectionsincluding a first pocket section that is 15 inches wide, a second pocketsection that is 8 inches wide, and a third pocket section that is 5inches wide; a strap having a width of 2 inches and a height that isless than the width of the strap; the strap being attached to the fittedbed sheet forming a strap for holding items, and the strap beingadjacent to the pocket, the strap having at least one edge that forms atop opening of the strap, which will be referred to as a top strap-edge,the top-strap edge being straight, horizontal, and parallel to the topedge of the one of the four side sections to which the strap isattached, the strap having a first side edge and a second side edge, theone of the four side sections of the fitted bed sheet to which thepocket is attached having a closer side edge and further side edge, thecloser side edge being closer to the pocket than the further side edge,the strap being fastened to the fitted bed sheet at a region between thepocket and the closer side edge of the one of the four side sections ofthe fitted bed sheet to which the pocket is attached; a bottom edge thatis open, straight, and parallel to the top strap-edge; and the strapalso being sewn to lie flat against the fitted sheet such that when thefitted sheet is on a mattress, tension pulling the fitted sheet to fiton the mattress tends to pull the strap closed.
 13. The system of claim12, one of the first side edge and the second side edge of the pocketbeing located 19 inches from where two side sections of the four sidesections of the fitted bed sheet meet or located a distance that isexpected to be 19 inches from one end of the bed when the fitted bedsheet is on the bed.
 14. The system claim 12, the top opening of thepocket being 1 inch from the top edge of the one of the four sidesections of the fitted bed sheet to which the pocket is attached. 15.The system of claim 12, the top strap-edge of the piece of materialbeing located 1 to 2 inches below the top pocket-edge of the pocket. 16.The system of claim 12, the strap having a height of ½ of an inch to 1½inches.
 17. A system comprising: a fitted bed sheet, the fitted bedsheet having a top section, four side sections, each of the four sidesections having a top edge, two side edges, and a bottom edge, and anelastic strip; each edge of the top section of the fitted bed sheet isconnected to the top edge of a different one of the four side sections,each of the four side sections being connected to two other sidesections of the four side sections; the elastic strip connected to eachof the four side sections at the bottom edge of the side section; and apocket attached to the fitted bed sheet forming a plurality of pocketsections for storing items, which is positioned on the one of the fourside sections of the fitted bed sheet, the location of the pocket beingbased on dimensions of an average sized person and on dimensions of thebed sheet, the pocket having at least one edge that forms a top openingof the pocket, the edge being straight, horizontal, and parallel to thetop edge of the one of the four side sections to which the pocket isattached, the pocket being sewn to lie flat against the fitted sheetsuch that when the fitted sheet is on a mattress, tension pulling thefitted sheet to fit on the mattress tends to pull the pocket closed; thepocket is on a side of the fitted sheet that is designed to face awayfrom the bed; the pocket having a height of 6.5 inches, a first sideedge and a second side edge, the first side edge of the first materialhaving at least a portion that is  closed,  straight,  parallel to atleast a portion of the second side edge, and  perpendicular to the topedge of the pocket; the portion of the second side edge of the pocket towhich the first edge is parallel is also straight; the second side edgeof the pocket is also closed; a bottom edge, of the pocket, that isclosed, has at least a portion that is  straight, and  parallel to thetop of the pocket; and the plurality of pocket sections including threepocket sections formed side by side and touching one another, eachpocket section having a pocket structure that forms a pouch; each pocketsection having two side edges that are closed and each pocket sectionhaving a bottom edge that is a portion of the bottom edge of the pocket;the pocket having a width of 18.5 inches, the three pocket sectionsincluding a first pocket section that is 5 inches wide, a second pocketsection that is 5 inches wide, and a third pocket section that is 8.5inches wide; a strap having a width of 5 inches and a height that isless than the width of the strap; the strap being attached to the fittedbed sheet for holding items, and the strap being adjacent to the pocket,the piece of material having at least a top edge that forms a topopening of the strap, which will be referred to as a top strap-edge, thetop-strap edge being straight, horizontal, and parallel to the topsurface of the bed when the fitted sheet is fitted onto the mattress onthe bed, the piece of material having a first side edge and a secondside edge, the one of the four side sections of the fitted bed sheet towhich the pocket is attached having a closer side edge and further sideedge, the closer side edge being closer to the pocket than the furtherside edge, the strap being fastened to the fitted bed sheet at a regionbetween the pocket and the closer side edge of the one of the four sidesections of the fitted bed sheet to which the pocket is attached; abottom edge that is open, straight, and parallel to the top strap-edge;and the piece of material also being sewn to lie flat against the fittedsheet such that when the fitted sheet is on a mattress, tension pullingthe fitted sheet to fit on the mattress tends to pull the strap closed.18. The system of claim 17, one of the first side edge and the secondside edge of the pocket being located 18 inches from where two sidesections of the four side sections of the fitted bed sheet meet orlocated a distance that is expected to be 18 inches from one end of thebed when the fitted bed sheet is on the bed.
 19. The system claim 17,the top edge of the pocket being 1 inch from the top of the bed when thefitted bed sheet is on the bed.
 20. The system of claim 17, the topstrap-edge of the piece of material being located 1 to 2 inches belowthe top pocket-edge of the pocket.
 21. The system of claim 17, the straphaving a height of ½ of an inch to a 1½ inches.